Residential construction in Australia demands smart solutions that balance climate resilience, energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal. In Adelaide, homeowner Mitch made the bold decision to demolish a charming but run-down cottage and build a new home from the ground up. His goal was to honour the spirit of the original structure while embracing modern building principles that deliver long-term comfort, sustainability and durability.
Requirement
Mitch’s new build was guided by passive design principles inspired by the German PassivHaus standard—a globally recognised approach that focuses on airtight construction, high-performance insulation, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. While the home was not formally certified as a PassivHaus due to the rigorous standards required, the design philosophy strongly influenced the build. Mitch aimed for a home that would perform efficiently in Adelaide’s variable climate, reduce environmental impact, and incorporate recycled materials to reflect the character of the original cottage. Long-term protection against pests, moisture, and bushfire risk was also essential.
Approach
Working with a forward-thinking architect, Mitch adopted many elements of the PassivHaus methodology. Recycled bricks were chosen for their thermal mass and visual appeal. These bricks help regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night—reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
The design also featured strategic window placement to maximise passive solar gain, eliminating the need for air conditioning. Underfloor heating was installed to provide warmth during Adelaide’s cooler months, maintaining comfort while keeping energy use low.
Solution
To protect the structural integrity of the brick cavity walls and ensure long-term performance, Mitch specified the Stainless Steel Weepa—a prestige product designed for high-end residential builds. Made from marine-grade 316 stainless steel, it offers exceptional durability and corrosion resistance, even in coastal or bushfire-prone environments.
While the Stainless Steel Weepa was primarily selected for its sleek, architectural finish and aesthetic appeal, it also provided peace of mind due to the home’s location on the edge of a bushfire risk area. Mitch’s neighbour had recently built nearby and was required to use bushfire-rated Weepas, so Mitch was pleased to have a product that offered similar protection. The Stainless Steel Weepa complies with all Bushfire Attack Levels (BALs) under AS3959:2018 and features a Stainless Steel grate that excludes pests while allowing essential ventilation and drainage. This prevents damp and rot in the wall cavity, safeguarding the home’s structure and indoor air quality.
Benefits
Mitch’s new home is a showcase of sustainable design and technical excellence. Passive design principles ensure year-round comfort with minimal energy input, while recycled materials add character and reduce environmental impact. The inclusion of the Stainless Steel Weepa elevates the build, providing robust protection and a polished finish that aligns with the home’s high-performance goals.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
Product Reference: Stainless Steel Weepa